36. Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for Air what is the present strength of the Air Force of the Afghanistan Government in machines and men; what is the increase compared with 1923; whether the training and development of this force is under native direction; and, if not, what is the nationality of those principally responsible for advising the Afghanistan authorities in the matter?
Lord STANLEYI have been asked to reply. As regards the first and second parts of the question, the present strength of the Afghan Air Force is understood to be approximately 12 machines and 36 men, nearly all the men being Russians. These machines represent a net increase since 1923, when, although there were a few machines in Afghanistan, they were unairworthy, for which reason they are not included in the figures for present strength here given. As regards the last part, the force is commanded by an Afghan, but Russians are advising in regard to training and development.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe Noble Lord cannot be expected to anwer that question.